Material handling equipment plays a crucial role in industries and supply chains by improving operational efficiency, reducing manual labor, and ensuring the safe transport, storage, and control of materials and products. From forklifts and conveyors to automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and cranes, material handling equipment has evolved significantly to meet the ever-growing demands of various industries, including manufacturing, logistics, retail, automotive, and more.

As of 2024, the global material handling equipment market has reached a remarkable value of nearly USD 40.28 billion. This market is set for continued growth, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.20% during the forecast period of 2025 to 2034. By the end of this period, the market is projected to attain a value of USD 80.73 billion. This growth trajectory can be attributed to several factors, including technological advancements, increased automation in warehouses, e-commerce growth, and a shift toward sustainability in operations.

In this article, we will explore the various drivers behind the growth of the material handling equipment market, examine its segments, key players, and trends, and provide a detailed forecast for the coming years. We will also delve into the market dynamics and the impact of major companies such as Daifuku Co., Ltd., Jungheinrich AG, The Beumer Group GmbH & Co. KG, Kion Group AG, Mecalux, S.A., Toyota Industries Corporation, Hyster-Yale Group, Inc., JBT Corporation, and KUKA AG.

Material Handling Equipment: An Essential Component of Industry and Logistics

Material handling involves the movement, protection, storage, and control of materials and products throughout the manufacturing and distribution process. Material handling equipment (MHE) includes tools, vehicles, systems, and equipment designed to perform material handling tasks. These tasks range from lifting and carrying to sorting, packing, and transporting goods in various industries.

Get a Free Sample Report with Table of Contents@ https://www.expertmarketresearch.com/reports/material-handling-equipment-market/requestsample

Key Types of Material Handling Equipment

1. Manual Equipment: These are basic tools that require human intervention, such as pallet jacks, hand trucks, and drum trucks.
2. Automated Equipment: Automated material handling equipment (AMHE) includes systems like conveyors, robotic arms, and automated guided vehicles (AGVs), which require minimal or no human intervention.
3. Semi-Automated Equipment: This equipment bridges the gap between manual and fully automated systems, providing assistance to operators while still requiring human input for certain functions.
4. Storage and Retrieval Systems: This includes shelving, pallet racks, and automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS), used to store and organize materials in warehouses or manufacturing plants.
5. Cranes and Hoists: Used primarily in construction, shipping, and large-scale manufacturing, these machines help lift heavy loads that cannot be moved by other means.

Growth Drivers of the Material Handling Equipment Market

1. Technological Advancements and Automation

One of the most significant contributors to the growth of the material handling equipment market is the rise of automation. Companies are increasingly adopting automated solutions to streamline operations, reduce labor costs, and improve safety. Technologies such as robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and the Internet of Things (IoT) have enhanced the capabilities of material handling equipment.

For instance, Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs) and Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are increasingly being used in warehouses to transport goods without human intervention. These systems use sensors, GPS, and AI to navigate and optimize routes within warehouses, reducing congestion and improving overall efficiency. Similarly, robotic arms and automated sorting systems are revolutionizing the way materials are handled in manufacturing and logistics operations.

2. E-commerce Growth

The rapid growth of e-commerce has been a major driver of the material handling equipment market. With more consumers shopping online, there has been a significant increase in demand for efficient logistics and distribution systems. To meet this demand, e-commerce companies are investing heavily in warehouse automation, sophisticated sorting systems, and robotics to ensure faster order fulfillment and delivery.

Material handling equipment is essential in e-commerce fulfillment centers, where speed, accuracy, and efficiency are critical to meeting customer expectations. From order picking to sorting, packaging, and shipping, automated material handling systems help e-commerce companies reduce operational costs and improve customer satisfaction.

3. Increased Demand for Warehouse Space

With the rise of e-commerce and the increasing complexity of supply chains, companies are facing the challenge of managing large volumes of inventory. To address this, warehouses are being expanded, and more automated material handling equipment is being integrated to manage inventory and improve throughput. As businesses seek to maximize the use of warehouse space, solutions such as Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems (ASRS) and shuttle systems are becoming increasingly popular.

Increased demand for warehouse space, particularly in regions with high e-commerce activity, is driving the demand for advanced material handling equipment that can help optimize storage and retrieval processes.

4. Focus on Labor Safety and Ergonomics

As workplaces become more automated, there is a growing emphasis on improving worker safety and reducing the risks associated with manual material handling. Heavy lifting, repetitive tasks, and exposure to hazardous materials can lead to workplace injuries and accidents. To address this, companies are turning to material handling equipment that minimizes human intervention in hazardous tasks.

Ergonomically designed material handling equipment, such as powered pallet jacks, lift tables, and conveyors, are reducing the physical strain on workers and improving overall workplace safety.

5. Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Another key factor driving the material handling equipment market is the growing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency. Companies are increasingly seeking environmentally friendly alternatives in their operations. Automated systems, such as electric forklifts and energy-efficient conveyor systems, are replacing traditional gasoline-powered machines to reduce carbon emissions and lower energy consumption.

The push for sustainability in supply chains and manufacturing processes is motivating companies to invest in green technologies, which is further fueling the growth of the material handling equipment market.

Market Segmentation

The material handling equipment market can be segmented based on the following factors:

1. Type of Equipment

• Automated Equipment: This segment is expected to grow rapidly due to the increasing adoption of robotics and AI-powered systems. AGVs, robotic arms, and automated conveyors are in high demand.
• Manual Equipment: Despite the rise of automation, manual material handling equipment such as hand trucks, pallet jacks, and trolleys remains widely used in industries with less complex material handling needs.
• Semi-Automated Equipment: This includes equipment that works in tandem with human operators, such as powered pallet trucks and semi-automated storage systems.
• Cranes and Hoists: These are vital in heavy industries like construction, shipping, and mining for lifting and moving large materials.

2. End-User Industry

• Manufacturing: The manufacturing sector remains one of the largest consumers of material handling equipment. Industrial plants, factories, and assembly lines use these systems for the handling of raw materials, components, and finished goods.
• Logistics and Warehousing: The logistics and warehousing industry is witnessing significant growth due to the expansion of e-commerce and the need for efficient supply chain management.
• Automotive: Automotive manufacturers use material handling equipment extensively to move parts and components through production lines and assembly stations.
• Retail and E-commerce: As mentioned earlier, the retail and e-commerce sectors are highly reliant on efficient material handling systems to meet the growing demands of consumers.
• Food and Beverage: The food and beverage industry uses specialized material handling equipment, such as conveyors and automated sorting systems, to handle food products in a safe and hygienic manner.

3. Geography

• North America: North America remains a dominant player in the material handling equipment market, driven by the adoption of advanced automation and the presence of large e-commerce players.
• Europe: Europe is witnessing steady growth, with a strong emphasis on automation and energy-efficient systems. Germany and the UK are key markets in this region.
• Asia-Pacific: The Asia-Pacific region is expected to experience the highest growth, driven by rapid industrialization, urbanization, and the expansion of e-commerce.
• Middle East & Africa: The Middle East and Africa are also growing markets for material handling equipment, particularly in sectors like construction, logistics, and oil & gas.

Key Players in the Market

Several major companies dominate the material handling equipment market, each contributing to the development and growth of this sector. Some of the leading companies include:

• Daifuku Co., Ltd.
• Jungheinrich AG
• The Beumer Group GmbH & Co. KG
• Kion Group AG
• Mecalux, S.A.
• Toyota Industries Corporation
• Hyster-Yale Group, Inc.
• JBT Corporation
• KUKA AG

These companies are driving innovation in material handling solutions by investing in research and development, expanding their product portfolios, and forming strategic partnerships. Their efforts in automation, robotics, and energy efficiency are shaping the future of material handling systems.

Market Forecast and Future Trends

1. Rising Adoption of Autonomous Systems

As the need for efficiency and precision grows, autonomous material handling systems will become more widespread. The integration of AI, machine learning, and IoT in these systems will enhance their ability to make real-time decisions, optimize routes, and reduce operational costs.

2. Increased Focus on Sustainability

Sustainability will remain a key focus area for companies in the material handling equipment market. Green technologies, energy-efficient solutions, and eco-friendly materials will become increasingly important as businesses work to reduce their environmental footprint.

3. Expansion in Emerging Markets

Emerging economies in Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East will see substantial growth in material handling equipment demand. As industries in these regions modernize and automate their operations, the market for MHE will continue to expand.

Media Contact: